Moving Checklist: A Comprehensive Pre-Move Guide

Moving into a new apartment or house is a major life experience that can be incredibly fun and invigorating. Even so, it's also a task that takes plenty of preparation. Here's a look at some of the most important things you should do before you start living in your new location, aside from just changing your address at the post office. Our comprehensive pre-move guide is the essential checklist of things to do before moving into your new home, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition.

Make a detailed checklist outlining all the steps that should be taken before the big day. This checklist will act as your road map, taking you through the necessary preparations and assisting you in remaining organized during the procedure. We provide a complete checklist of things to do before moving in this post, encompassing all the important topics to consider.

Before you get lost in the details of moving, make sure you've thoroughly researched the real estate market to understand the property values and trends in your new location. Here is a handy checklist of things you need to do before you move into your new apartment or house.

Create a moving timeline

Creating a moving timeline is the first step in ensuring a smooth and organized relocation process. By establishing a timeline, you can effectively manage your tasks and avoid last-minute stress. Start by setting deadlines for each important task, such as notifying your landlord, scheduling movers, or transferring utilities. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and assign specific dates or timeframes to complete them. This will help you prioritize and stay on track, ensuring that you don't miss any crucial steps along the way.

In addition to setting deadlines, your moving timeline should also include important reminders and milestones. For instance, mark the date to start packing and dedicate specific days or weekends to decluttering different areas of your home. Be sure to allocate time for researching and hiring professional movers, as well as scheduling any necessary home inspections or repairs.

Decide what to keep and what to alter

It's a rare property that's truly perfect, from everything to the door to the light fixtures. Is there anything that needs renovating? Painting? Replacement or repair? You might not have quite as much leeway for change if you're renting, but you still can talk to your landlord or property manager and negotiate for certain allowances.

Once you know what you'd like to alter, see what's in the budget and get specific about when those changes will happen, as they might affect your move-in date or your ability to settle in as quickly as you'd like. Installing new flooring, for example, means space has to be free from belongings. It's OK if you have to wait for certain modifications, but none of them should be a surprise.

Do a walkthrough of the new house

Before moving into your new house, don't forget to conduct a thorough walkthrough to assess its condition and ensure everything is in working order. This is an excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with the layout and make sure it meets your expectations. Take note of any areas that require repairs or updates, such as leaky faucets, faulty electrical outlets, or damaged fixtures. Check the condition of the water heater during your walkthrough, as you'll want to ensure you have hot water from day one.

Creating a detailed list of these issues will help you prioritize and address them before settling into your new home. Consider home security measures during the walkthrough. Examine the existing locks on doors and windows to see if they fulfill your safety standards. Consider adding additional security elements to your new house, such as deadbolts, security cameras, or an alarm system, if necessary.

Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers should all be tested to ensure they are in good working order. Inspect the electrical system for any loose or exposed wires, as well as any damaged outlets or electrical fixtures. During your walkthrough, don't forget to locate and test the circuit breaker to ensure all electrical systems are functioning correctly.

A broad walkthrough of your new home ensures that you get off to a good start by addressing any maintenance or upgrade requirements as soon as possible. It allows you to establish a list of any repairs or modifications that are needed, allowing you to plan and budget accordingly. By addressing these issues prior to moving in, you can establish a comfortable and secure living environment from the start. Prioritizing home security measures during the initial tour protects your new home and gives you peace of mind, knowing you've taken precautions to secure your home and loved ones.

Donate and sell

Moving is the ideal time to get rid of what's no longer serving you. You'll save time packing and unpacking if you lighten up, and there is a chance your moving costs could go down, too, as you likely will have fewer boxes or could get by with a smaller truck and fewer movers.

You have various options when it comes to donating or selling home things that you no longer use. One alternative is to hold a garage sale in your neighborhood, where you may gather your stuff and display them for people to buy. Another option is to advertise your products on online classified platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, where you can connect with local buyers. You might also consider donating your belongings to charitable organizations, thrift stores, or local community centers, where they can be restored or sold to benefit various causes.

Plan your financial expenses

We're referring here to the cost of the physical move itself on top of any property alterations, getting from point A to point B. On average, this is about $4,300 for an interstate relocation and $2,300 for an in-state move. Costs can vary considerably based on many different factors, but consider the following needs:

Moving truck rental or hiring professional moving services (cost depends on truck length and/or number of movers required)

Packing supplies, such as boxes and tape
Storage unit rental
Moving insurance
Equipment (e.g, dollies, bungee cords)

Plan and budget your finances accordingly. Contact your insurance company to transfer or update your homeowner's or renter's insurance before the move. Make sure to consider all the associated costs of home moving, including moving company fees, packing supplies, utility setup fees, and any necessary repairs or updates to your new home. You might also have costs such as application/closing fees and pet, security and utility deposits.

Measure it out and organize

Look carefully at the space you have available, taking features like windows and outlets into consideration. Measure each room. Then measure your main belongings, such as your couch, bed, and entertainment center. Armed with these figures, it's easy to mix and match on paper and figure out the best layout.

Then, when you're ready to transport everything, you'll know exactly where to set it down and will save yourself having to readjust. As you work, think about any organizing supplies you'll need to store everything accessible and make yourself a list! It might be handy to take a few quick videos or pictures on your smartphone for basic reference.

Label all moving boxes

Labeling moving boxes significantly facilitates the moving process, whether you hire a professional moving company or opt for a do-it-yourself approach. Clearly marking each box with its contents and the room it belongs to allows for efficient unloading and unpacking at your new home. When the boxes are properly labeled, you can easily identify which items are inside without having to open each one, saving you valuable time and effort.

Furthermore, identifying the boxes based on the rooms to which they belong simplifies the unloading process. Movers, family members, or friends assisting with the relocation can easily place each box in the right area, reducing the time spent unpacking. This way, you can immediately find items like cooking supplies or bedding that you need right away without having to dig through boxes in separate areas.

Transfer or set up utilities

Make arrangements for the transfer or installation of critical utilities such as power, water, gas, internet, and cable. To plan the installation or transfer of these services, contact the respective utility suppliers well in advance. This preemptive approach will help you avoid any annoyance or delays when you move in. By addressing the utility demands as soon as possible, you will be able to settle into your new home easily and enjoy the ease of having all necessary services up and running.

Also plan the disconnection of services in your existing house for the right moving day. Inform your present utility providers of your plans to relocate. Coordination of service disconnection with your moving plan can ensure that you are not charged for utilities you no longer require. This step removes the danger of paying for services you no longer use and simplifies the changeover process.

Forward your mail and notify your friends

Submit a change of address form to the postal service to have your mail forwarded to your new address. The process can be completed online or by visiting your local post office. By completing this easy but critical step, you may ensure that important letters and packages are not left behind or missing during the move. It also saves you the trouble of contacting each individual sender to update your address, because the postal service will automatically forward your mail for a set amount of time.

In addition to forwarding your mail through the postal service, tell important contacts of your new address. Inform your friends, family, and coworkers about your move and provide them with your new address. This ensures that they can continue to contact you and send any relevant communication directly to your new address.

Save money

Saving money during a move is a common goal for many individuals. There are several strategies that can make a significant financial impact, whether you're moving locally or long distance into a new home. One effective way to save money is to explore free moving supplies and boxes. Instead of purchasing new boxes and packing materials, consider visiting local grocery stores, liquor stores, or bookstores, as they often have spare boxes available for free. Additionally, ask friends, family, and neighbors if they have any packing supplies they no longer need. This approach not only reduces costs but also promotes sustainability by reusing materials.

Another cost-saving measure is to carefully evaluate the services you require. To maximize your savings, consider planning your move during the cheapest season, which is usually late fall through early spring, when demand for moving services is lower. When moving locally, consider whether it's feasible to handle the move yourself instead of hiring professional movers. Renting a moving truck or van and asking for the help of friends or family members can significantly reduce expenses. However, for long-distance moves or moves involving valuable or delicate items, it may be worth investing in professional movers to ensure the safety of your belongings.

Move items that movers will not

If you have early access to your new house before the official moving day, take advantage of the opportunity to begin moving goods that most moving companies do not handle. Personal and valuable things such as vital documents, jewelry, dangerous and hazardous materials, or fragile belongings that require special care can fall into this category.

Consider moving items of sentimental or immediate value that you may need right away, such as essential kitchenware, bedding, or clothing. Having these items readily available in your new home will make the initial days more comfortable and convenient. It also gives you the chance to set up key areas like the bedroom and kitchen ahead of time, making the transition smoother and allowing you to settle in more quickly.

Pack an essentials box

When preparing for a move, it's always a good idea to pack an essentials box containing items you'll need immediately upon arriving at your new home. This box serves as a lifeline during the hectic period of moving day and the first few days in your new place. Include essential toiletries, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and toilet paper, to ensure you have the basics covered for your family right away. Pack a change of clothes for each of your family members, including sleepwear, as well as bedding to make the first night in your new home comfortable.

Including an essentials box in your moving checklist is a wise decision. Basic kitchen supplies are also crucial for the initial days in your new home. Pack some non-perishable food items, utensils, paper plates, and cups. This allows you to prepare simple meals without having to unpack all of your kitchen supplies immediately. Lastly, don't forget to include important documents, such as identification papers, passports, medical records, and any relevant moving documents. Keeping these documents in a secure place within your essentials box ensures easy access and peace of mind during the transition period.

Clean things up

Even if your apartment or home was in show condition when you agreed to move, space will need a basic wipe down. Stock up on cleaning supplies well in advance, as you'll need them for both your old and new homes. Don't forget places like above the window or door sills, on top of the fridge, and inside the cabinets. Look around outside if you have your own yard, too. Get rid of any dead leaves or brush, and make sure there's nothing that provides a hiding place for strangers. If you do this in advance, you won't get slowed down when you actually need to unpack.

Introduce yourself and learn about what's available

Even if you have some work left to do before your actual move-in, find out who your neighbors are and let them get to know your face. Ask them for recommendations for items or services you know you'll need, or find out what people in the neighborhood do for fun. Then do a little footwork to get a sense of different routes or businesses/organizations around you.

Once you know when you're going to move, be smart and don't procrastinate! The more time you give yourself to finish these steps, the easier it is to do things little by little. And if you can do that, you probably will be far less stressed.

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